A History of the Lumberjack

A lumberjack is a person who works cutting and hauling trees to be processed into forest products. The actual term ‘lumberjack’ tends to refer more to a pre-1945 worker who used hand tools, such as axes and saws, to cut down trees. Though the work itself was dangerous, primitive and exhausting, the lumberjack represented the ultimate picture of masculinity, exemplifying characteristics such as strength, bravery and physical endurance.

The lumberjack culture is an interesting one. The lifestyle of lumberjacks from 1840 – 1940 was fairly heavily studied. Though many cities were industrializing and becoming more modern, lumberjacks took pride in their hand-work and defended their craft. Lumberjack camps were self-established and self-supplied, almost going against modern industrialization. Lumberjacks kept mostly to themselves and often slept in their camps in cabins. Females were rarely present, with exception of the wives of the foremen and cooks in the camps. Lumberjacks spent their free time acting as “men” are traditionally expected to – drinking, telling manly jokes around a campfire and eating lots of food.

Lumberjack Birthday Ideas

If you’ve got an aspiring lumberjack at home, we have some tips to help you kick off your wood-cutting festivities! As always, don’t forget to start with Discount Party Supplies’ extensive selection of lumberjack tableware, favors and party decorations!

S’mores: S’mores are always a huge hit with kids, and let’s admit it, adults too! An easy, quick and tasty snack, s’mores can be a fun addition to your lumberjack party.

Log cabin buildable sets: A fun activity for kids could be a log erector set, or you could create a makeshift one with painted popsicle sticks and glue. This is a great opportunity for kids to express their creativity and build something of their own.

Log cabin favor bags: Use brown paper bags and draw a log cabin design on the bottom half or so with a fine black pen. Fold the top half over to form a roof and color it in with a thick green marker. Use the black pen to draw little shingles or rows.